India backs IAEA visit to Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhya atomic power plant to prevent nuclear disaster

India has said that it remains concerned over the volatile situation at the Russian-controlled Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) in Ukraine.

At a United Nations Security Council (UNSC) briefing on Ukraine in New York on Tuesday night, New Delhi highlighted that it supports the ongoing efforts, including that of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), to reduce tensions and ensure nuclear safety and security at the facility.

“We continue to carefully follow developments regarding the safety and security of Ukraine’s nuclear facilities. India attaches high importance to ensuring the safety and security of these facilities, as any accident involving nuclear facilities could potentially have disastrous consequences for public health and the environment,” said Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj, India’s Permanent Representative to the UN.

Referring to the latest information available with regard to the nuclear power plants and facilities in Ukraine, including the updates published on August 19 by the IAEA, India stated that it accords high priority to the safeguards and monitoring activities being discharged by the IAEA.

“We hope the proposed visit by a team from IAEA to the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant and its surrounding areas will be agreed by the two sides, as indicated in their recent statements,” said Kamboj.

She added that India continues to reiterate that the global order is anchored on international law, the UN Charter and respect for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of states.

Also Read: Russia urges IAEA to visit Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant in Ukraine soon